The Mercer Williams House Museum is one of Savannah, Georgia, USA’s most iconic residences, located at 429 Abercorn Street. This historic house with its rich tradition, classic structure, and cultural importance is a beautiful witness from the past that retains its timeless beauty. Whether you visit for the history, the architecture, or simply the ghost stories, the Mercer Williams House Museum is a must-visit destination in Savannah, Georgia.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| 429 Bull Street, Savannah, Georgia | |
| 1860, commissioned by General Hugh W. Mercer | |
| 1868 | |
| Mix of Greek and Italian styles with Renaissance Revival elements | |
| John S. Norris | |
| Purchased in 1969 by Jim Williams, who restored it | |
| Museum open to the public for tours | |
| 18th- and 19th-century antique furnishings, Chinese porcelain, English and American paintings | |
| Scene of the murder described in “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil” | |
| Monday through Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 4:10 p.m., Sunday hours may vary |
So pour yourself a cup of coffee, sit back, and join us on our journey through one of Savannah’s most beloved historical gems.
Historical Background
In order to get a proper appreciation of the Mercer Williams House Museum, you have to go back in time, and you have to go back to the people who established this historic house.
Origins of the House
The Mercer Williams House was built in 1860 by well-known architect John S. Norris. Commissioned by General Hugh W. Mercer, the house was meant to evoke the splendor and refinement of Savannah’s aristocracy. Constructed in the Italianate style, the house is known for its craftsmanship and architectural detail, making it one of the defining features of Savannah’s Historic District.
But construction was disrupted by the Civil War, and the work was finished only in 1868, well after General Mercer had abandoned the effort. Although General Mercer never occupied the house, his legacy is associated with its name, and the building is testimony to his ambitions.
Jim Williams’ Restoration
Fast forward to 1969, when Jim Williams, an antiques dealer and preservationist, bought the house. Williams was instrumental in restoring the Mercer House to its former glory. Savannah was in the midst of a preservation movement at the time, and Williams was a leader of that efforts, breathing new life into many of the city’s historic buildings.
Williams painstakingly restored the home, outfitting it with antiques, fine art and historical artifacts. His work not only saved the house but helped to spur a cultural renaissance in Savannah.” Williams is remembered as one of the key figures in promoting Savannah’s heritage today; the Mercer Williams House still stands, as testament to his vision and dedication.
Architectural Significance
The Mercer Williams House Museum is not only a historic landmark, it’s also an architectural treasure. Its design and features reflect the elegance of the Italianate style, a fashionable architectural style in the mid-19th century.
Architectural Style
Italianate style is amply represented by the Mercer Williams House, with its symmetrical layout, low-pitched roof and tall, narrow windows. The house’s biggest characteristic is its pink brick facade, which gives it a welcoming look. The home also has cast-iron railings and decorative cornices, topped by a stately front door.
Inside, the house is equally impressive. The sprawling staircase, the high ceilings and the ornate moldings show the attention to detail that went into its building. The interior design is representative both of 19th-century opulence and the personal taste of Jim Williams, who curated the furnishings and decor.
Remarkable Artifacts and Furnishings
The museum collection is a treasure trove of antiques, fine art and historical artifacts. Among the more notable lots are a collection of Fabergé objects, years-old furniture and pieces by notable artists. Every room is a unique window into the past, revealing the artistry and craft of a time long gone.
For those who visit them, these artifacts offer a more visceral connection to the history of the house and its inhabitants. This collection is enhanced by additional features, making Mercer Williams House Museum a destination for art and history-minded folk alike.
The Infamous Incident
If the Mercer Williams House is beloved for its beauty and history, it’s also notoriously associated with something dark that changed its legacy forever.
The Killing of Danny Hansford
In 1981, the house was the scene of a shocking event: the murder of a local male escort and assistant to Jim Williams named Danny Hansford. Hansford’s death was controversial, as was his death’s circumstances. Williams said he acted in self-defense, but his trial turned into a sensational case that received national attention.
Williams eventually was acquitted after four trials, but the incident cast a long shadow over the house’s history. The murder and its consequent trials were later enshrined in John Berendt’s best-selling book, “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil,” which brought international attention to both Jim Williams and the Mercer House.
Cultural Impact
The Mercer Williams House achieved new levels of fame following the 1994 publication of the nearby book and its 1997 big-screen adaptation. Tourists descended on Savannah to visit the house that was crucial to the story. The book and the movie didn’t just spotlight the Mercer House, they also played a role in cementing Savannah as a must-see, must-experience destination for history and culture lovers.
Visitor Experience
The Mercer Williams House Museum is a place you won’t forget. Here’s a look at what awaits inside this historic treasure.
Museum Tours
Guided tours lead visitors through the residence’s first floor. The knowledgeable guides share insights into the history, architecture, and artifacts of the home making for an educational and enjoyable experience. Tours take place throughout the week, and reservations are recommended, particularly during busy tourist seasons.
Special Events and Programs
Along with regular tours, the Mercer Williams House Museum also offers various special events such as holiday celebrations and educational programs. These events offer special opportunities to experience the house in a new context, often tied to themes in Savannah’s history and culture.
The House Today
The Mercer Williams House Museum is an integral part of Savannah’s cultural fabric. Still, people from all around flock, to see a little of the past while still being tied into the current.
Current Management
Jim Williams’ sister, Dorothy Susan Kingery, is the current curator of the museum. Gen Wants the Attendees to Help Raise a House The attendees room have the icon and a song waiting to go. The house has been preserved as a museum under y her stewardship so that the public can understand its historical and cultural significance.
Community Engagement
The museum also engages with the local community through events and programs that celebrate Savannah’s heritage. The Mercer Williams House Museum honors its legacy of being a beacon of history, both for residents and visitors.
Ghost Stories and Legends
No historic house is without its ghosts, and the Mercer Williams House has a few ghost stories of its own.
Haunted Reputation
The house has developed a reputation over the years for being haunted. Strange events have been reported by visitors and staff alike, ranging from unexplained sounds to sightings of ghostly figures. These tales have only added to the house’s mystique, making it a popular destination for paranormal enthusiasts.
Popularity Among Tourists
The Mercer Williams House’s reputational hauntings have made it a staple stop on Savannah’s many ghost tours. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, the spooky stories that swirl around the house give its already intriguing history another layer of interest.
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